Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 4

Written Answers. - National Development Plan.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

55 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the capital or other funding specifically earmarked in the National Development Plan 2000-2006 for the development of Waterford Regional Airport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24637/99]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

As the Deputy will be aware, a significant sum of £10 million was allocated to the regional airports, including Waterford, under the National Development Plan 2000-2006.

Funding has not been specifically earmarked for any individual airport at this stage, but now that the plan has been finalised, my Department will, over the coming months, be examining the proposals from each of the airports with a view to prioritising investment needs over the period 2000-06.

This examination will entail seeking and evaluating the detailed plans which the regional airport companies have for improvements which are deemed necessary to ensure the safe and viable operation of the airports. Decisions will only be taken in relation to the disbursement of funds in the national development plan after that exercise is complete.